During the closing decade of the 80s, I was beginning a budget travel adventure to Europe with a travel partner. Since my friend was exploring enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had booked a fortnight visit there en route to London.
We got to the student accommodation, a large 10-storey building on the Upper West Side named International House. After dropping our bags, we made our way to the dining hall, where we picked up meals, found a table, and began chatting with fellow residents.
Adjacent to my seat was an individual of Iraqi origin enrolled in an engineering program at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I did for a living, and I told him that I had just graduated with a degree in science and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – right next door to the engineering department, which was why he was aware of it. He recommended that I consider applying for a job with them. I chuckled at the suggestion, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, additionally, I did not possess a US visa.
The following day I toured the city, going back to the cafeteria that evening. The man from Iraq approached me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Given that he had taken the effort, I attended the interview – but right away informed my host that I was without a work permit, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where opportunities abound – she said: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I seized the chance to complete a graduate degree in global studies.
I never saw that student again and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in numerous aspects. I didn't possess the courage or self-belief to contact anyone at an Ivy League university and seek a position. Moreover, I had consistently hoped to take classes in another country, but wouldn't have been able to pay for it without that tuition waiver.
Critically, that role at the university led me to a role in Europe where I met my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. It was a total sliding doors moment. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.
What is the Nicest Thing a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
Whether it's cheering you up to altering your path, we would love to know chance encounters that have stuck with you.
Please share your story if you are of legal age, keeping your details private if you choose. The stories you tell are secure, and are intended for the goal of sharing inspiring stories.
